Business

Next phase of Chesterfield Town Centre improvements to begin

30th June 2025

Work to transform Rykneld Square into a greener space, with more planting, seating and new paving is set to begin.

This phase of the council’s Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project is due to begin on Monday 7 July and should be completed by the end of October 2025. The planned works include the creation of new grassy areas for people to sit in, new paving, specialist planting and a new bin store, which together will help the space more welcoming for visitors and residents.

Whilst these works are ongoing access through the square will be limited and part of Spa Lane car park (next to the decorator centre) will be closed for use as a construction compound.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “These works will help enhance the Crooked Spire for visitors and residents by providing a warm welcome to the town centre, it also supports the plans we are developing with our partners about the future use of the Visitor Information Centre.

“There will be some disruption arising from these works, but we are working with our contractor and updating local businesses to try and minimise the impact. Once completed this will be a fantastic new space for Chesterfield residents and visitors to enjoy.”

The works in Rykneld Square include new paving and surfaces to create a more modern public space.

It will also include new seating for visitors to use and new planting to help enhance biodiversity and create a more welcoming space.

A new bin store will be created to help keep the area looking tidy and allow unhampered views of the churchyard and heritage railings.

The pavement that runs along the top of the square will be upgraded, to create a more level surface.

New bollards will also be installed to help make it a safer space for pedestrians along with a new crossing point.

The works are due to be completed by late October 2025 and will be carried out whilst other areas of the town centre are also being regenerated.

To find out more about the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project and sign up for email updates visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/revitalise

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Living in Chesterfield: Why more families and professionals are moving to our Derbyshire town

30th June 2025

In a time when many are rethinking where and how they want to live, Chesterfield is quietly emerging as a compelling relocation destination.

Recently named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, our historic Derbyshire market town is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Chesterfield has also been recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal. Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

The town is seeing new housing developments, including a new £78 million scheme by Honey Homes, and regeneration projects like the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood will bring more homes.

But what’s driving this momentum? We spoke to local estate agents and business leaders to understand why young professionals and families are choosing to call Chesterfield home and why now might be the perfect time to join them.

Chesterfield’s national recognition

Chesterfield’s recent national recognition hasn’t come out of nowhere. Richard Sherwood, Director of Roy Peters Estates, has seen it first hand over nearly three decades in the local property market.

“It is no surprise that Chesterfield has been identified as one of the happiest places to live in the recent Guardian article. Chesterfield is a great market town, and it continues to evolve. We are looking forward to the modernisation of the Market Square being completed. We have the Peak District on the doorstep and can be in London or either coast in two hours.”

Richard also points to the town’s independent business scene, like restaurant Bottle & Thyme and Queensbury Financial Advisors and its strong sense of community, reflected in events like the Sparkle Walk for Ashgate Hospice and the Redbrik Chesterfield 10K.

A housing market built on stability and opportunity

While many towns have seen turbulence in the housing market, Chesterfield has remained remarkably resilient. Jessica Risorto, Director at Redbrik, explains how North Derbyshire has responded to national fluctuations with confidence:

“Chesterfield’s property market has weathered the national fluctuations with resilience and growing appeal. Chesterfield has stood out by maintaining its status as an affordable place to live, especially compared to other towns of similar size and location.”

She notes a growing wave of first-time buyers entering the market in 2025, particularly young families.

“Another key trend is the rise in young families settling in Chesterfield. Our town’s schools, parks, and strong sense of community are drawing people in, and we’re even seeing extended families relocating from out of town to be closer to loved ones who’ve already made the move.”

Where people want to live — and why

Chesterfield’s appeal isn’t just about price, it’s about lifestyle. Jess highlights the west side of Chesterfield as one of the most desirable areas, thanks to its character homes, green spaces, and proximity to the Peak District. But she also sees rising interest in areas like Bolsover, Calow, and Brimington:

“These neighbourhoods are fast becoming top choices for buyers, thanks to their evolving communities, increasing investment in local infrastructure, and the quality of homes being built.”

Developers, including Honey, Woodall Homes and Stancliffe Homes, are responding to demand with thoughtfully designed new builds, especially bungalows, which are proving popular with both downsizers and families.

Regeneration with purpose

Chesterfield’s transformation is rooted in long-term thinking. Stacey Davies-Bowler, Managing Director of Pinewood Property Estates, sees the town’s regeneration as a model for sustainable, community-led growth:

“The most exciting aspect of Chesterfield’s evolution is that it isn’t driven by speculative development, but by targeted investment focused on long-term value for residents, businesses, and the wider region.”

Projects like the Waterside regeneration are reshaping the town’s economic landscape. Stacey believes these developments will create modern, mixed-use spaces that integrate homes, businesses, and leisure, with better connectivity and public realm improvements.

Adding to this, Stacey has observed a shift in what buyers and renters are looking for:

“I’ve already seen a shift in the types of properties people require. Buyers and renters want more than just a home; they want neighbourhoods that offer lifestyle, connectivity, and value. With renewed investment, we can expect smarter housing developments that blend design, sustainability, and affordability.”

A way of life

For those considering moving to Derbyshire, Chesterfield offers a great lifestyle.

Jamie Wajs, Director at Lime Living, paints a picture of a town that blends convenience with culture and nature:
“Chesterfield offers the perfect balanced lifestyle with a great mix of local amenities and a good offering of educational facilities for families, and we have easy access to open and green spaces.”

“You can enjoy an increasing variety of independent shops, bars, bistros and restaurants in the town centre and along Chatsworth Road.”

He also highlights the town’s growing cultural scene, from the Winding Wheel and the Crooked Spire to the soon-to-reopen Stephenson Memorial Hall, which is being transformed as part of a multi-million pound renovation project to create a modern visitor and cultural experience in the heart of our town centre.

And for a true local experience?

“Derbyshire v Yorkshire at cricket, soaking up the atmosphere down at Queens Park.”

Be part of the community

As Chesterfield evolves, its friendliness and community spirit are grounded in the place.

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, believes that’s part of what makes the town so special:

“We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live. As a lifelong resident, it’s fantastic to see our brilliant outdoor spaces, local businesses and community spirit highlighted.

“If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home.”

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Chesterfield businesses encouraged to capitalise on Government’s £165bn Industrial Strategy

26th June 2025

Chesterfield’s business community are being encouraged to seize the opportunities presented by the Government’s newly launched Modern Industrial Strategy, which sets out a ten-year vision to drive growth across advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, and digital innovation.

The strategy, shaped through national consultation including input from businesses in Chesterfield, outlines over £165 billion in sectoral investment and introduces a range of measures to support SMEs, improve planning, and boost skills.

Key initiatives include:

£39bn into advanced manufacturing
£30bn into clean energy
£31bn into creative industries
£65bn into professional and business services
£1.2bn per year for skills development
A new Business Growth Service to improve access to support and funding
Expansion of the Made Smarter programme with up to £99m for SME manufacturers
Measures to address late payments and improve procurement access
Planning reforms to fast-track projects

The East Midlands is already home to nationally significant assets in clean energy, defence, and life sciences. Chesterfield’s manufacturing base and successful track record of developing innovative skills and business support initiatives position it to benefit directly from the strategy’s priorities.

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “The Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy marks a turning point. It speaks directly to the strengths, ambitions, and future of the East Midlands.

“The strategy sets out a bold, ten-year vision to back Britain’s industrial heartlands to drive clean growth, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and the digital revolution.

“For the East Midlands, this means jobs, skills, and global investment. But above all, it means that our region, long overlooked, is finally being recognised as the engine of the UK’s future growth.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, added: “This strategy aligns with the ambitions we’ve been championing in Chesterfield — supporting SMEs, investing in skills, and driving innovation. Our businesses are ready to grow, and this national framework gives us the tools to do it. We’ll continue working with partners to ensure Chesterfield is not only included in this vision but helps lead its delivery.”

Whilst the new industrial strategy has been welcomed, East Midlands Chamber has called for more detail on how the strategy will be delivered and how it will benefit businesses across the East Midlands.

East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight, Richard Blackmore, said: “Measures announced in the Industrial Strategy are a welcome blueprint for businesses to build on. The detail of exactly how each element is applied is what will really matter and what needs to be scrutinised going forward.”

“With all the investment pledged, we need to see the region fully benefit. What’s needed now is the critical detail on implementation of the strategy, which must have East Midlands businesses front and centre to enable growth.”

Read the Modern Industrial Strategy

Discover more about the support available to businesses in Chesterfield.

If you are a business in Chesterfield and would like play a proactive role in the economic growth of Chesterfield, the Chesterfield Champions may be for you. Over 230 Chesterfield Champions support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest. Find out more about Chesterfield Champions.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Chesterfield’s Crooked Spire named one of the East Midlands’ most visited free attractions

24th June 2025

Chesterfield’s iconic landmark, the Crooked Spire Church, has been named the third most visited free attraction in the East Midlands, according to the latest V isitEngland Annual Survey of Visits to Visitor Attractions.

The Chesterfield Parish Church welcomed 89,367 visitors in 2024, drawn by its distinctive twisted spire and centuries of history. The recognition places the church alongside some of the region’s most celebrated heritage destinations and highlights Chesterfield’s growing appeal as a short break destination.

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said, “Chesterfield’s heritage is one of our greatest assets. From the Crooked Spire to our historic market, canal, and nearby stately homes, we offer visitors a rich and authentic experience. People are drawn to places with stories, character, and a strong sense of identity. Chesterfield delivers all of that and more.”

The VisitEngland survey gathered information from 1,373 English attractions and also revealed that overall visits to English attractions rose by 1.4% in 2024, with international visitors fuelling much of the growth.

Across Derbyshire, heritage continues to be a major draw. Chatsworth was named the most visited paid-for attraction in the East Midlands with 632,000 visitors, while Hardwick Hall ranked fifth with 305,000. Other nearby attractions featured in the top 20 include Bolsover Castle, Peak Rail, and Crich Tramway Village.

Chesterfield’s wider heritage offer includes Barrow Hill Roundhouse, the UK’s only operational railway roundhouse and the Chesterfield Canal. The town’s 800-year-old open-air market, medieval roots, and vibrant events calendar make it an ideal base for exploring the region.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “England’s first-class attractions, from our world-renowned museums, art galleries and historic houses to our places of worship, our parks and gardens, remain vitally important to our tourism offer to both international and domestic visitors.

“With summer on the doorstep and the school holidays fast approaching, make this the year you discover England’s fine attractions. Not only will you be giving our great attractions a much-needed boost, but I know you will enjoy a fantastic day out with family and friends, creating memories of a lifetime.”

This summer, Chesterfield invites visitors to explore more than just its famous spire. From stargazing at Chesterfield Observatory to medieval exhibitions, haunted pub tours, and the return of the Chesterfield Children’s Festival, the town offers a packed line-up of experiences.

For more inspiration and to plan your visit, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Proposed Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route set to unlock major investment and growth opportunities

20th June 2025

A proposed new transport link between Chesterfield and Staveley has taken a major step forward, following confirmation of regional funding support through the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

The Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route (CSRR) is a key infrastructure project that will unlock development along the A619 corridor, enabling the delivery of new homes, employment land and environmental improvements. The route is expected to catalyse regeneration along the Chesterfield Canal corridor, with the potential to inject up to £500 million into the regional economy.

The announcement has been welcomed by local leaders and stakeholders, who have long championed the project as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable growth across the borough.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “This is fantastic news for the borough of Chesterfield and the region. The Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route is a transformational opportunity which will also unlock new sites for development that will drive significant economic growth across the borough, supporting the creation of new homes and new jobs for local people.

We have worked hard with public and private sector partners to secure this funding, and have fully supported Mayor Claire’s work to secure significant investment to support this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our borough, and the wider region.”

The funding announcement follows a successful bid by EMCCA, led by Mayor Claire Ward, to secure investment in strategic transport priorities across the East Midlands. The CSRR is one of several projects identified for support, reflecting its importance to the borough and the wider region.

Andy Dabbs, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, commented: “This landmark investment in transport infrastructure is a game changer for the East Midlands and the borough of Chesterfield.

The proposed investment in the Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route will unlock vital connectivity and be a catalyst for regeneration along the Canal Corridor. With the potential to create thousands of jobs and homes, and inject £500 million into the regional economy, this project exemplifies the kind of investment our communities need.

We commend Mayor Clare Ward for securing this funding for the region, and we will continue to work with partners to ensure Chesterfield plays a central role in driving inclusive, sustainable growth across the region.”

Andrew Byrne, Development Director at Devonshire Group, added: “The securing of these funds by EMCCA is fantastic news, and we are grateful to Mayor Claire and her team for the continued promotion of the CSRR.

This is a long-standing project that is now gaining impetus. The delivery of the CSRR is key to the regeneration of this once-thriving corridor, and will provide much-needed homes and employment, as well as delivering environmental improvements to the area. Devonshire Group will continue to work with its partners at the Borough Council, County Council, EMCCA and Harworth Group to make this happen.”

Harworth Group, Chief Executive, Lynda Shillaw, welcomed the Government’s investment in the East Midlands. She said: “We are encouraged by the Government’s announcement on the Mayoral settlements, focused on much-needed investment in transport and infrastructure across the regions, in the North of England and the Midlands. As a leading land and property regeneration business and a long-term investor in the regions, we believe that public investment in strategic infrastructure is critical to help unlock and accelerate some of the country’s largest opportunities across employment and housing.

This includes the East Midlands, where we are particularly optimistic by the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s announcement regarding the Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route (CSRR) and the A614/A6097 road improvements among other investments, securing a significant transport investment package and encouraging much-needed regeneration.”

East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Richard Blackmore added:

“With infrastructure across the East Midlands in real need of investment to enable growth, it’s encouraging to hear of spending on improved transport, flood defences and nuclear energy, but as with the recent comprehensive spending review from the government it’s really the detail that matters – what projects, how they’re implemented, and how effective they are. It’s essential nowhere needing improvement is overlooked.

The Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route is part of a wider vision to deliver over £2 billion of investment and regeneration opportunities across the borough. Businesses and investors are encouraged to explore the full range of opportunities at www.chesterfield.co.uk/invest.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Chesterfield Champions celebrate business milestones

19th June 2025

Chesterfield Champions from the hospitality, manufacturing, and sustainability sectors are celebrating business milestones.

These businesses continued to impact the town’s economy, and their success highlights the borough’s environment, which supports businesses to thrive.

370,000 people stay in Chesterfield

Casa Hotel is celebrating 15 years of hospitality excellence, having welcomed its 370,000th guest. Founded by local entrepreneur Steve Perez, the 4-star hotel has become a key destination for business and leisure visitors. With its award-winning Cocina restaurant, vibrant Barca Bar, and location near the Peak District and major transport links, Casa Hotel plays a central role in Chesterfield’s visitor economy.

“What I’m most proud of is the positive impact we’ve had on Chesterfield and the surrounding areas,” said Steve Perez. “From the beginning, we’ve aimed to provide something special for both our local community and visitors.”

20 years of manufacturing success

Mould Ability, a composite manufacturing firm based in Staveley, has launched a new website to mark over 20 years in business. The site highlights the company’s expertise in master patterns, moulds and lightweight GRP products, and supports its ambition to grow and attract new talent.

“Chesterfield is my hometown and it was always going to be the home of Mould Ability,” said Managing Director Mark Blackbourn. “I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved in the last 20 years, and I look forward to our continued growth right here in Chesterfield.”

Celebrating seven years of sustainability support

Green Arch Consulting is celebrating seven years of helping clients embed sustainability into their operations. Over the past year, the firm has expanded its team, launched a new ESG advisory service, and joined UKSIF to deepen its responsible investment expertise. The firm also welcomed Adrian Barnes as a new Partner, bringing over 20 years of experience in sustainable finance.

“What started as a small independent consultancy has grown into a trusted partner for clients across the world,” said Founder and Director Emma Knight-Strong.

Find out more about doing business in Chesterfield.

Casa Hotel, Mould Ability and Green Arch Consulting support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing

200 young people supported by Careers Made in Chesterfield

16th June 2025

Chesterfield is investing in the future of its workforce through the continued success of the Careers Made in Chesterfield (CMiC) programme, a key part of the borough’s Skills Action Plan.

Funded by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), this year’s initiative has engaged over 200 young people through hands-on workshops and real-world work experience.

Now in its second year, CMiC is helping to build a stronger local talent pipeline by connecting students with employers across Chesterfield’s key growth sectors. The programme has delivered 20 work experience placements and reached 214 students through interactive, sector-themed workshops.

“CMiC introduces students to a broad range of career opportunities within Chesterfield’s key growth sectors,” said Paula Symonds, Projects Manager at DEBP. “In year one, we focused on Property and Construction. Now in year two, we’ve expanded to include Health, Science and Social Care, and Engineering and Manufacturing.

Workshops were delivered at Parkside Community School, Springwell Community College, and Whittington Green School. Students worked in teams to tackle a simulated flooding emergency, designing flood prevention measures and planning a temporary hospital. The challenge encouraged them to explore transferable skills and career pathways across multiple sectors.

A student from Whittington Green School shared: “The best part was working with friends to create something that may help in the future.”

Students also took part in employer site visits, gaining valuable insight into local industries:

Springwell students visited Triton Construction at Staveley Canal Basin.
Chesterfield Youth Hub customers toured United Cast Bar and Thomas Bow City Asphalt, with one participant securing an apprenticeship.
Ashgate Croft students visited Stepnell at Spire Lodge and Thomas Bow City Asphalt at Chesterfield Market Place.

“The students thought their visit was interesting, learning about Thomas Bow’s company history and seeing the builders in action,” said Vicky Bridge, Gateway 1 Teacher at Ashgate Croft School. “They go to Chesterfield town centre every week, so it was great to see the progress on the market renovation.”

Fifteen local employers have supported CMiC this year, including: EcoTech Engineers Ltd, Environment Agency, Fortem, Frank Shaw Associates, Jackson Civil Engineering, Met Office, MSE Hiller, O’Brien Construction Ltd, Rodgers Leask Limited Consulting Engineers, Stepnell, Thomas Bow City Asphalt, Tim Jones Consulting, Triton Construction, and United Cast Bar.

Support has also come from Chesterfield College, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Derby.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, said: “The Careers Made in Chesterfield programme has had another successful year. The interactive workshops and work experience opportunities are an excellent way of young people gaining knowledge about local businesses and provide inspiration in terms of future career paths that could be followed.

“By working with employers, we can ensure that skills provision in the borough meets their future needs. I look forward to seeing how this programme continues to progress and hearing from young people about how it has helped them.”

Careers Made in Chesterfield is a vital part of Chesterfield’s long-term vision to ensure local people have the skills needed to thrive in the borough’s evolving economy. Businesses play a crucial role in this mission.

Employers interested in supporting the next generation – whether through site visits, mentoring, or work experience – are encouraged to get in touch with DEBP at enquiries@debp.org.

If you are a business and would like to receive regular email updates on initiatives to support careers guidance and advice, you can sign up here.

DEBP, Ecotech Engineers, Forem, Frank Shaw Associates, MSE Hiller, Rodgers Leask, Stepnall, United Cast Bar, Chesterfield College and the University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Classic car getaway launches at Peak Edge Hotel

13th June 2025

Visitors to Chesterfield and the Peak District can now experience the thrill of the open road in true style, thanks to a new luxury getaway launched by the award-winning Peak Edge Hotel.

The Luxury Classic Car Getaway for Two invites guests to explore one of Britain’s most scenic regions behind the wheel of a vintage 1995 MG RV8 or a sleek Aston Martin DB9. Both were handpicked from the personal collection of hotel owner and former rally champion Steve Perez.

“This is more than just a hotel package, it’s a personal invitation to experience the Peak District through the eyes of our owner, Steve Perez,” said Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel. “As a passionate car collector and former rally champion, Steve has handpicked two of his most loved vehicles to share with guests. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking adventure, this getaway blends heritage, horsepower, and hospitality in a way that’s completely unique to Peak Edge.”

A Countryside Escape Like No Other

Starting from £400 per couple, the package includes:

A two-night stay in a Superior Double or Twin Room with breakfast
Private hire of either the MG RV8 or Aston Martin DB9
A complimentary bottle of Prosecco on arrival
10% off the à la carte menu at the 2 AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant
Exclusive scenic route recommendations through the Peak District

Guests can also enhance their stay with the Peaks & Plates experience, a gourmet countryside add-on featuring a luxury picnic hamper filled with produce from Walton Lodge Farm, and a six-course tasting menu crafted by Head Chef Alan Rigby.

Explore, Taste and Drive

Curated driving routes include:

Snake Pass and Winnats Pass
Derwent Dams and Ladybower Reservoir
Monsal Head to Longstone Edge
Visits to Chatsworth, Haddon Hall, Bakewell, and the Heights of Abraham

After a day of exploring, enjoy a relaxed yet refined dining experience at the Red Lion Restaurant, where seasonal menus showcase the best local produce.

Bookings are now open at peakedgehotel.co.uk/classic-car-luxury-getaway

For more inspiration and to plan your visit to Chesterfield and the Peak District, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Luxury interiors company is fourth tenant announced for Elder Way

10th June 2025

Hot on the heels of luxury hair salon Feather & Fern opening its doors, Elder Way is set to welcome its fourth tenant – boutique, high-end kitchen and interiors business, OTI Interiors.

The design-led business has signed a five-year lease on Unit 1A, a 1,109 sq. ft space located next door to Feather & Fern on Knifesmithgate.

OTI Interiors was founded during the Covid-19 lockdown by local entrepreneur Gavin Grainger, who also owns the award-winning restaurant and bar Bottle & Thyme, located in the prominent corner unit at Elder Way.

Seeking to diversify during the pandemic, and drawing on his background in design, Gavin launched OTI as an interiors business which specialises in bespoke, handcrafted kitchens. The company produces only a limited number of commissions each year, typically fewer than 25, which are hand-built in Chesterfield.

The new Elder Way unit will serve as OTI’s first dedicated showroom away from the firm’s small industrial space in Chesterfield, where all furniture is made.

The new unit will be used as OTI’s customer-facing meeting point, featuring a consultation area where clients can enjoy a glass of Champagne. In addition to meeting space, the showroom will also host an extensive range of samples, including tiles. It will also host events and demonstrations in partnership with local businesses, including estate agents, florists, and chefs.

The unit is currently undergoing a full fit-out and is expected to open to the public in late summer.

Gavin Grainger said: “We love being based at Elder Way. It’s been the ideal premises and location for Bottle & Thyme, with strong footfall and neighbouring businesses that align with our brand. Creating a showroom for OTI here made absolute sense.

“The unit is a blank canvas with beautiful natural light, perfect for showcasing our products. OTI’s design style has been on display at Bottle & Thyme for the past year, and we often receive compliments. Now I’m excited to bring that same look to the high street and make it more accessible for people to have in their own homes.”

In addition to Bottle & Thyme and Feather & Fern, OTI Interiors will also join HotPod Yoga as ground-floor tenants of the former iconic Co-op department store, a landmark building in Chesterfield.

The letting of OTI Interiors now leaves just four units available at the iconic leisure development in the heart of Chesterfield town centre.

The 1930s Mock Tudor building has been thoughtfully reimagined and redeveloped by regeneration specialists Jomast, creating eight prime street-level units that blend heritage architecture with modern retail potential.

Located in the heart of the town, Elder Way has established itself as a go-to destination for independent businesses and vibrant customer experiences.

The upper floors of the development are occupied by Premier Inn Chesterfield, recently named the best hotel in the brand’s entire UK portfolio, further cementing Elder Way’s position as a high-quality, mixed-use destination.

Mark Hill, Commercial Property Director at Jomast, commented: “Gavin’s success with Bottle & Thyme has clearly demonstrated the potential of Elder Way as a destination for creative, independent businesses. We’re thrilled to welcome OTI Interiors, a high-quality, design-focused brand that fits perfectly with our vision for a vibrant, experience-led town centre. With just four units remaining, interest from prospective tenants remains strong, and we look forward to announcing more exciting lettings soon.”

Bottle & Thyme has been a standout success since relocating to Elder Way, tripling the size of the business and establishing itself as a cornerstone of the site’s independent offering.

With the arrival of OTI Interiors, Elder Way continues to build its reputation as a dynamic and desirable destination for innovative retailers, creators, and service providers.

For enquiries or further information about the remaining units at Elder Way visit www.elderway.co.uk or contact the development’s agents WSB Property on 0113 234 1444.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Planning granted for 275 home development in Duckmanton

10th June 2025

Housebuilder Honey will build 275 new homes in Duckmanton after being granted planning permission for a £78m development.

Called Pearl and located on Tom Lane, the development will comprise a mix of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes, including terraces, semi-detached and detached properties.

The 41-acre site has been allocated for development by Chesterfield Borough Council as part of the Chesterfield local plan to deliver 4080 homes by 2035.

Work is anticipated to start this summer, with the first homes expected to be occupied by Summer 2026.

Pearl will feature 18 of Honey’s different house types, including terrace, semi-detached and detached properties. Prices at the development will start from £229,995.

Honey chief executive officer, Mark Mitchell, commented: “Our Pearl development will deliver design-led homes that are perfect for modern-day living for buyers looking to move in or to Duckmanton.

“There has already been huge interest in Pearl since we announced our plans, so we now look forward to releasing the first homes for sale later this year at this thriving new community we are creating.”

Chesterfield was recently named in a list of Britain’s happiest places to live by the national newspaper, The Guardian.

The article highlights Chesterfield’s access to open spaces as one of its major advantages, stating: “Chesterfield sits on the edge of the Peak District and is home to one of the oldest open-air markets in England, as well as historic medieval alleyways, churches, museums and grand old buildings. Its blend of urban and rural access (being just a short journey from both the Peak District National Park, and Sheffield and Derby) makes it a popular place to live.”

Discover more about living in Chesterfield.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

New artwork to premiere at Chesterfield Children’s Festival

10th June 2025

This summer, a new artwork encouraging families to play, explore, and connect in fun will premiere at the Chesterfield Children’s Festival.

Commissioned by Junction Arts and First Art, the Post Office of Possibilities is an interactive art installation that blends street theatre and community engagement.

The piece will premiere at the Chesterfield Children’s Festival. The festival is a free, family-friendly celebration of arts and culture for children aged 0–16. The festival is in Queen’s Park from 26–27 July 2025.

Created by outdoor theatre specialists, the Babbling Vagabonds, in collaboration with young people from Boza Youth, the Post Office of Possibilities is based on the classic British post office. It will be packed with hands-on features brimming with surprises. Visitors will be invited to pen postcards of positivity and letters to their future selves, with playful prompts that spark conversations around hope, wellbeing, aspirations, and what it means to live a good life.

Colourful, costumed characters from the “Department of Dreams” will roam the festivals, animating the space with skits, games and interactive encounters.

Phil Coggins from The Babbling Vagabonds said: “The Department of Dreams and their Post Office of Possibilities is here to deliver joy, curiosity, and connection. This pop-up show will blend playful performance with hands-on creativity. We want to reignite the joy of slow, tangible, human connection in an increasingly digital world.”

Young people from Bolsover will shape the new artwork. The Babbling Vagabonds will work closely with Boza Youth, Bolsover’s volunteer-run youth club for 11–17-year-olds, over the coming months to co-create the piece.

Jemma Burton, Project Manager at Junction Arts, said: “The young people were instrumental in selecting The Babbling Vagabonds and shaping the project. They wanted something that spoke to their age group — something fun, creative, and inspiring. The Post Office of Possibility is all that and more: a space for positive expression and joyful interaction.”

Discover more about the Chesterfield Children’s Festival

Find more ideas to keep the family entertained this Summer in Chesterfield.

Junction Arts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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